The 1950's was a significant decade in the history of the cinema; it marked theend of classical Hollywood and the beginning of a cinema that addressed thecontemporary culture and post-war social changes. The decade saw important changesoccurring in the European cinema and a worldwide crossover of influences. Withinthis context, we are celebrating the cinema of Vincente MInnelli who, working withinthe tradtions of classical Hollywood, brought a modernist aesthetic and cosmopolitansensibility to his films.